Protecting The Princess

Chapter 7

Hailey's room in the palace had been repurposed into a recovery space, carefully monitored by the royal physicians. Despite her protests, they had insisted on bringing in medical equipment, ensuring Hailey would be watched and cared for around the clock. It was rare for her to be on the receiving end of such care, and the unfamiliarity was difficult to mask. Hailey, ever the soldier, had tried to argue her way back to her feet, only to be firmly rebuked by her doctor.

Leonor, however, was even harder to sway. She became an almost constant presence at Hailey's bedside, breaking her otherwise busy schedule into pockets of time spent reading or simply sitting with her. Her warmth seeped into the cold, clinical atmosphere of Hailey's room, making it feel almost like a haven.

On the third evening after the attack, Leonor entered quietly, not wanting to disturb her if she was sleeping. But Hailey was awake, lying on her back, gaze fixated on the ceiling as if in deep thought. Leonor watched her for a moment before clearing her throat.

"Storme?"

Hailey's head turned, her expression softening a fraction when she saw Leonor. "Your Highness."

Leonor moved closer, carefully pulling up a chair beside the bed. "I thought we agreed you'd call me Leonor."

There was a hesitation in Hailey's expression, but then she nodded. "Alright. Leonor."

They shared a small, quiet smile before a nurse appeared to check on Hailey's bandages. Leonor excused herself to give Hailey privacy, but not before she noticed the uncomfortable grimace Hailey tried to hide. A surge of sympathy rose in Leonor; she couldn't begin to imagine the pain Hailey must be in.

The following day, Leonor returned with a different idea in mind. She had thought long and hard about what she could do to lift Hailey's spirits while aiding in her recovery. Entering the room with a soft knock, she carried a tray set with tea, pastries, and a thick, old book.

"What's all this?" Hailey asked, her brow lifting in mild surprise.

"Just thought I'd bring a bit of tea and company," Leonor replied, smiling as she set the tray down on the small table by the bed. "I know you're not really one for chit-chat, but I thought maybe a story could take your mind off things."

Hailey's curiosity piqued as she eyed the book. "What story?"

Leonor sat down, unfolding a knitted blanket over her lap as she opened the book. "It's one of my favorites—stories of knights, heroes, and battles." She glanced up, catching the slight gleam of interest in Hailey's eyes. "Perhaps you'll find something in common with them."

-

They spent the next hour in quiet companionship, Leonor reading aloud, her voice gentle yet animated. She read through stories of old Spanish warriors and tales of chivalry, casting sidelong glances to see Hailey's reactions. To her surprise, Hailey's usual guarded expression softened, and a slight smile tugged at the corner of her lips.

-

In the days that followed, Leonor came to Hailey's room every evening, bringing with her something to share—sometimes a story, other times quiet conversations over a cup of chamomile tea. Slowly, Hailey opened up, the walls she'd so carefully constructed around herself beginning to show tiny cracks.

-

"He just abandoned his duties to run away with her? thats a bit cliche." I smiled, wincing as I shifted.

"He was in love! Thats what people do." Leonor smiled at me.

"Unbelievable." I shook my head. The action caused Leonor to let out a loud and unrestrained giggle, one that warmed my heart.